Sweet Sour Chicken Breast: 15-Minute Scrumptious Fix

Name: Sweet Sour Chicken Breast: 15-Minute Scrumptious Fix
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: For the Sauce:; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar; 1/2 cup Ketchup; 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce; 1 tbsp Sesame Oil; 2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1/4 cup Cold Water; 2 tbsp Cornstarch; For the Chicken:; 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; For Garnishing:; 2 tbsp Green Onions, sliced; 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds

by Manar Jota

September 30, 2025

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Sweet sour chicken breast has been my go-to weeknight savior for years. I remember the first time I tried making it myself, totally intimidated by takeout versions. I wanted that perfect balance of tangy vinegar, sweet sugar, and savory soy sauce, all coating tender chicken. This recipe delivers exactly that, with a glossy, delightful sauce you’ll want to lick off the plate. It’s incredibly fast, making it an easy sweet sour chicken breast option when you’re short on time. Forget the long waits and greasy takeout menus; this homemade version is far superior. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and picky eaters alike. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a solution!

Incredibly Quick: This quick sweet sour chicken breast comes together in under 15 minutes, perfect for when hunger strikes fast.
Flavor Explosion: You get that classic sweet and tangy taste that’s perfectly balanced and utterly addictive.
Healthier Than Takeout: Skip the delivery and enjoy a homemade version that uses less oil and controlled ingredients.
Simple to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking, this homemade sweet and sour chicken breast recipe is foolproof.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies for a complete stir-fry experience.
Family-Approved: The crowd-pleasing flavor profile is a hit with both kids and adults.
Satisfying: Tender chicken coated in a luscious, glossy sauce makes for a truly comforting dinner.

Ingredients for Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

Gathering these simple sweet sour chicken breast ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. I always keep these on hand for a quick dinner. The combination of pantry staples creates that signature sweet and tangy flavor we all love.

1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp Olive Oil – for searing the chicken to perfection
For the Sauce:
1 cup Granulated Sugar – the base for sweetness, balances the vinegar
1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar – provides that essential tangy kick
1/2 cup Ketchup – adds body, color, and a touch of tomato flavor
1/2 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – for savory depth and umami
1 tbsp Sesame Oil – a little goes a long way for nutty aroma
2 tbsp Light Brown Sugar – adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness
2 cloves Garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for aromatic flavor
For Thickening the Sauce:
1/4 cup Cold Water
2 tbsp Cornstarch – creates a beautiful glossy texture
For Garnishing:
2 tbsp Green Onions, sliced – adds a fresh, sharp bite
1 tbsp Sesame Seeds – for a little crunch and visual appeal

How to Make Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

Ready to whip up this amazing dish? It’s surprisingly simple. Follow these steps and you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time. This guide breaks down exactly how to make sweet sour chicken breast that rivals any restaurant.

Making the Sweet Sour Sauce

First, let’s get that gorgeous sauce going. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp light brown sugar, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Bring this heavenly mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. The aroma is already incredible!

Preparing and Cooking the Chicken

While the sauce simmers, let’s prep the star. In a zip-top bag, combine the 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) with a bit of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Seal it up and give it a good shake to coat the chicken evenly. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. You want that perfect sear!

Sweet Sour Chicken Breast: 15-Minute Scrumptious Fix - Sweet Sour Chicken Breast - additional detail

Combining and Finishing the Dish

Now for the magic! In a small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup cold water with 2 tbsp cornstarch to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens to a glossy, luscious consistency. Let it simmer for another minute. Pour this thick, vibrant sauce over the cooked chicken breast with sweet sour sauce in the skillet. Stir gently to ensure every piece is perfectly coated. Let it heat through for about a minute more. Serve immediately and enjoy your masterpiece!

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

Want to elevate your homemade sweet and sour chicken breast? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips ensure your chicken is perfectly tender and the sauce is just right, every single time.

Always use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; sear in batches if needed for a beautiful golden crust.
Taste and adjust the sauce seasoning before thickening—add a pinch more sugar or vinegar to suit your preference.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice to the sauce.

What’s the secret to perfect sweet sour chicken breast?

The secret to the best sweet sour chicken breast lies in the sauce-to-chicken ratio and achieving a good sear on the chicken. A balanced sauce, not too sweet or too sour, is key. Also, don’t overcook the chicken! For more insights on achieving perfect stir-fry textures, check out this guide on stir-fry techniques.

Can I make sweet sour chicken breast ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cut the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the chicken and combine with the sauce just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meal ideas, explore these recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sweet sour chicken breast?

A common pitfall is a watery sauce; ensure you use the cornstarch slurry correctly. Another mistake is overcooking the chicken, which makes it tough. Searing in batches helps prevent both of these issues. For more tips on cooking chicken, you can refer to resources on food safety temperatures.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

This versatile dish is perfect for so many occasions! It’s fantastic served piping hot over fluffy steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up all that delicious sauce beautifully. For a complete meal, consider a quick sweet sour chicken breast stir fry by adding in some colorful bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking. You could also serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a light, refreshing Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Sweet Sour Chicken Breast: 15-Minute Scrumptious Fix - Sweet Sour Chicken Breast - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

This recipe offers a satisfying meal with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown per serving, based on the recipe yield:

Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

I love having leftovers of this delicious dish because it makes for an incredibly easy meal later in the week! Proper storage ensures your sweet sour chicken breast stays tasty and safe to eat. Once the chicken has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. This method is perfect for easy sweet sour chicken breast storage in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! For refrigerated leftovers, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Frozen portions should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same methods. This ensures your chicken remains tender and the sauce doesn’t break.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Sour Chicken Breast

What is sweet sour chicken breast?

Sweet sour chicken breast is a classic Chinese-American dish featuring tender pieces of chicken breast coated in a vibrant, glossy sauce that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. It’s a beloved takeout staple, but this recipe shows you how to make an incredibly delicious and simple version right at home. The sauce typically includes ingredients like vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce, creating a delightful contrast. For other popular Chinese-American dishes, you might enjoy this Chinese-style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute and can even yield a more moist result due to their higher fat content. Simply trim any excess fat, cut them into bite-sized pieces, and follow the same cooking instructions. The cooking time might be a minute or two longer for thighs, but the flavor payoff is wonderful for this simple sweet sour chicken breast variation.

How do I make the sauce less sweet or less sour?

The beauty of homemade is customization! If you find the sauce too sweet, add a little more apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice to balance it. If it’s too sour for your liking, stir in another tablespoon or two of brown sugar or granulated sugar until it reaches your desired taste. Always taste and adjust before thickening with the cornstarch slurry for the perfect flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to this sweet sour chicken breast dish?

Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to make this a more complete meal! I love adding colorful bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), chunks of fresh pineapple, or crisp snow peas. Toss them into the skillet during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking the chicken, or add them directly to the sauce and chicken mixture in the final step. This makes it an even more satisfying and nutritious meal.

Variations of Sweet Sour Chicken Breast You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different ways to enjoy this classic flavor! Sometimes I crave a different cooking method or a twist on the usual ingredients. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

Sweet Sour Baked Chicken Breast: For a hands-off approach, try baking the chicken. Toss the coated chicken pieces with the sauce in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and bubbly. It’s a great way to get that delicious flavor with minimal fuss.
Sweet Sour Chicken Breast with Pineapple: Add chunks of fresh or canned pineapple (drained) to the stir-fry during the last few minutes of cooking. The tropical sweetness of the pineapple complements the tangy sauce beautifully.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture. It adds a wonderful warmth without overpowering the classic sweet and sour taste.
Vegetable Medley: Boost the nutrition and color by tossing in your favorite stir-fry vegetables like broccoli florets, snap peas, sliced carrots, or bell peppers along with the chicken in the final step.